Pro Master Heating & Air Conditioning will help keep your cooling system running at peak efficiency for years. The best way to do this is to schedule regular maintenance appointments.
When your technician arrives for a maintenance appointment, they will start by checking for clogged fans and a dirty air cabin filter. They will also check for refrigerant leaks.
A thermostat is a very important part of any air conditioning system. It sends signals to the ac unit and other major appliances in your home so they can function properly. If you have a broken thermostat, your house will be uncomfortably hot or cold, and it will use more energy than necessary. This can also cause serious damage to your system and lead to expensive repairs later on down the road. Fortunately, there are several easy ways to check if your thermostat is working properly without calling in an expensive professional.
The easiest thing to check is whether the thermostat is showing the correct temperature on its screen. If it isn’t, the batteries may have died, or there could be a problem with the thermostat itself. This is easily fixed by changing the battery. If the problem persists, it is time to call in a professional.
Another common AC repair is a weak flow of cool air from your vents. This can be caused by a number of different issues, including clogged filters, a malfunctioning fan, or problems with the ductwork. If you have a clogged filter or a fan that isn’t running, the airflow will be limited, and you won’t be getting as much cool air as you need.
When you are experiencing a lack of cool airflow, the first thing to do is check your thermostat. If the airflow is still poor, it’s likely due to other factors, such as low refrigerant levels or a malfunctioning compressor. A professional will be able to diagnose these problems and recommend the proper AC repair.
If the airflow is good but the temperature isn’t being maintained, there is most likely a problem with the ac unit itself. A professional will be able to use diagnostic tools such as pressure testing and bubble test to identify the issue. In some cases, they will need to replace parts or the entire unit. In addition, a professional can help you with maintenance tasks such as cleaning the coils and checking for refrigerant leaks that can be costly to fix if left untreated.
One of the most common causes of AC issues is a dirty filter. If the air flow is restricted by dust, it can cause the unit to overwork and heat up. This is why you should regularly inspect, clean, or replace the filters to ensure your system is operating properly.
To do this, start by shutting off power to your system. This can be done at the thermostat, breaker box, or at the shutoff switch located on or near your indoor unit (which usually looks like a light switch). Once you have turned off power to your system, locate the air filter. It’s likely to be in the return vent, which is the vent that pulls air from your rooms back into the central system. It may have a label on it or be inside a metal panel with hooks or screws to open. A screwdriver with the appropriate head type can help you remove it. When you take out the old filter, look at it for a sign that it is time to change it. If caked on dirt or dust can be seen easily, this is a good indication that it’s time to change the filter.
Once you have removed the old filter, carefully replace it with a new one. Make sure to check the arrows on the filter to ensure it is placed in the correct direction. Also, note the size of the filter to be able to purchase a replacement at your local hardware store.
You should be able to find several different types of filters, including high-efficiency, low-emissions, and allergen-removal options. Depending on your needs and your home environment, you can decide which filter will best meet your requirements. You will want to keep in mind the MERV rating, which is an industry standard that measures efficiency. A higher MERV rating will require your system to work harder, but you’ll get more airflow out of it. For the most efficient and reliable results, you should choose a middle-of-the-road MERV rating. This will provide good quality and good airflow without putting too much stress on your system.
A failing compressor can be the cause of many different problems. Typically, a technician will perform a few simple tests to determine whether or not the compressor is at fault. These tests include visual inspection, a compressor clutch test, and a multimeter test of the compressor terminals.
First, the technician will inspect the compressor for damage and corrosion. If any damage or corrosion is observed, the compressor may need to be replaced. The next step is to examine the wiring on the compressor. This will include checking for signs of fraying or burning insulation, as well as making sure that the wires are properly connected to the plug. Finally, the technician will perform an electrical resistance test of the compressor. This test will use a multimeter to measure the resistance between the common, start and run windings. Ideally, the resistance should be below 30 ohms.
This is one of the most important tests that a ac repair technician will do. The technician will put a red pin on the terminal C and a black pin on the terminal R, while using the multimeter in the continuity setting. If the resistance is significantly higher than 30 ohms, it could indicate that the compressor has open windings. The technician will repeat the test after the compressor has cooled down to ensure that the readings are accurate.
When performing this test, the ac repair technician will also listen to the compressor for unusual noises. Unusual noises like grinding, squealing or rattling may indicate internal mechanical issues with the compressor. The ac repair technician will then consult the compressor manual to determine the best course of action for the compressor.
In addition to a visual inspection and an electrical resistance test, a ac repair technician will also check the oil for moisture and acid. They will also take a sample of the refrigerant to make sure it is in good condition. In addition, they will check the fuses and circuit breakers to make sure they are working properly. If the fuses or circuit breakers keep tripping, there is probably a problem with the compressor.
A properly working air conditioning system depends on a variety of components, including the ductwork that transports temperature-controlled air from the AC to different rooms in your home. Problems with ducts can cause uneven cooling, high energy bills, and dust accumulation around vents. If you notice any of these problems, it’s time to call an ac repair technician for service.
You can often spot signs that your ducts need repair by looking for holes and leaks. An HVAC professional can use special testing equipment to determine the extent of the duct leakage, but you can also perform a simple test at home. Turn on the HVAC system and slowly move a smoke pencil or incense stick along your ductwork. If the smoke moves or disappears, it’s a good indicator that there is a hole somewhere in your ductwork and that air is escaping it.
If you find insects or rodents in your ductwork, that’s another telltale sign that it is time to get it repaired. These pests often enter ducts through holes and cracks. They can contaminate the air with their urine and feces, which can lead to a wide range of health problems. Fortunately, you can usually prevent this problem by replacing old or damaged ducts with new ones that are tightly sealed and insulated.
Other common warning signs that it’s time to get ductwork repaired include uncomfortably cold or warm spots in your home, a musty smell coming from vents, and high utility bills. You can seal minor leaks in your ductwork with metal foil tape, but you should have an HVAC technician examine and repair extensive or damaged sections of your ductwork.
If you are worried about the cost of AC repairs, consider asking your installer if they offer financing. While you may have to pay interest, it’s often much less than the cost of a personal loan from a bank or credit union. You can also try to negotiate a lower rate with the contractor, which may make it easier for you to afford your needed repairs.